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Do you wear something inappropriate and flashy when going to see potential clients? When you attend a networking meeting, does it look like your wardrobe last updated about a decade ago? The answer to both of these questions is most likely "no". When you are about to attend a function where it is likely that you'll meet potential clients you make sure that you project a professional image.
So if it is not acceptable for business owners to pay insufficient attention to their appearance when meeting potential clients, why is it acceptable for a web site to project an unprofessional image? Many business web sites that I come across online have a color scheme and an overall look and feel that were popular in 1997. Others are using free hosting providers that require their users to display advertising that is almost always irrelevant. Other sites are extremely disorganized, making it impossible to find anything of interest or to even tell what products or services are offered.
A professional appearance is a must for your web site, since it is seen by potential clients day in and day out, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. So what constitutes that that "professional look"? Here are three basic defining characteristics of a professional web site:
With domains now available for less then $8/year, there is absolutely no excuse not to have your own domain. Your own business domain makes your business web site address memorable and brandable. Don't pass a perfect opportunity to build your own online brand. Get a domain for your business today.
If your business domain name is taken, try your first name, followed by your last name, followed by .com. Many coaches, writers, speakers and other professionals favor domains in the FirstNameLastName.com format. This helps reinforce your name's brand name.
Free hosting usually comes with advertising plastered all over your web site. In addition, it places severe limitations on the amount of space and bandwidth available to your site. The overall quality of service (availability, stability, and speed) also tends to be lower.
This cannot be overemphasized. It is crucial to have a professionally designed web site. Let's review that one more time. It is crucial to have a professionally designed web site. You have at most just a few seconds to make a positive impression on potential customers. If they like your web site, they will stick around and learn more about your products or services. Otherwise, they will simply move on to the next site.
Your business needs a professional web site. This means having your own domain and using professional web hosting and professional web site design. This is the equivalent of professional attire in the business world. Project the right image and you will gain more customers.
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